This 1821 pattern Heavy Cavalry officer’s sword belonged to Samuel Ernest Edwards of the 3rd (Prince of Wales') Dragoon Guards. The sword bears his initials and family coat of arms. The sword was made by the Wilkinson Sword Company in January 1890.
The 890mm blade has a flat spine above a broad single fuller. The blade terminates in a double-edged spear point and is in very good condition, retaining its original polish. There are some small spots of pale tarnish towards the point and one small edge nick to the service sharpened blade.
The blade is deeply etched with trefoil and ogee arches and foliate scrollwork above the cypher of Queen Victoria. The forte bears the coat of arms of the Edwards family, a demi-lion rampant, in its paws a tower. The initials SEE are etched below.
The obverse of the blade bears trefoil and ogee arches, foliate scrollwork and the rayed crown and cypher of Queen Victoria. The forte bears the crowned feathers of the Prince of Wales.
The ricasso is etched with the makers’ details, Henry Wilkinson, Pall Mall, London. The obverse ricasso bears Henry Wilkinson’s proof disk. The blade spine bears a centre of percussion arrow and is stamped with the Wilkinson serial number 29892.
The second pattern “honeysuckle” guard is in very good condition. The part-knurled back strap is finished with a knurled pommel. The shagreen grip is in very good condition. The original silvered wire strands are intact and tight. The blade is firm in the hilt.
The sword is complete with its brown field service scabbard in good condition. The leather has staining and marks consistent with its age and use. The stitching is intact. The sword sheathes and draws smoothly and is held firmly within the scabbard.
This scarce 1821 pattern heavy cavalry officer’s sword has an excellent blade, made by Henry Wilkinson and was carried by a named officer in the prestigious 3rd, The Prince of Wales’ Dragoon Guards.
